16 Mocktail Mint Julep Recipes for Refreshing Southern-Inspired Sips Updated 11/2026

A frosty cup packed with crushed ice, fragrant mint, and something deliciously refreshing is hard to resist. That’s exactly what makes a mocktail mint julep such a wonderful drink for warm afternoons, backyard parties, spring celebrations, and relaxed evenings on the porch.

Inspired by the traditional Southern mint julep, these alcohol-free versions keep the signature fresh mint and icy presentation while introducing everything from juicy peaches and bright citrus to berries, herbs, and sparkling mixers.

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Some recipes are sweet and fruity, others lean toward sophisticated botanical flavors, and a few bring surprising creamy or gently spiced twists. They’re particularly lovely for Kentucky Derby celebrations, bridal showers, garden parties, and summer cookouts.

Best of all, most require only a few minutes, simple ingredients, and basic kitchen tools. A muddler is helpful, but the back of a wooden spoon works perfectly well.

For the best results, use fresh spearmint, chill your mixers beforehand, and keep plenty of crushed ice nearby. Gently pressing the mint releases its fragrant oils without making the drink bitter.

Ready to fill your favorite julep cup? These refreshing recipes make it easy to find a new favorite.

Refreshing Mocktail Mint Julep Recipes to Make at Home

Classic Ginger Ale Mint Julep With Fresh Lemon

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This golden, sparkling mocktail captures the familiar charm of a Southern julep without any alcohol. Fresh mint creates a cooling aroma, while ginger ale adds gentle spice and sweetness. Served in a frosty silver julep cup with a towering mound of crushed ice, it looks elegant and inviting.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 8 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp simple syrup
• 1/2 cup chilled ginger ale
• 1 cup crushed ice, plus more as needed
• 1 fresh mint sprig for garnish
• 1 thin lemon wheel for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the mint leaves, lemon juice, and simple syrup in the bottom of a chilled julep cup or rocks glass.
2. Gently press the mint with a muddler four or five times until fragrant. Avoid shredding the leaves.
3. Fill the cup generously with crushed ice, then slowly pour in the chilled ginger ale.
4. Stir gently from the bottom to combine the flavors. Add extra crushed ice to create a rounded mound above the rim.
5. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and lemon wheel. Serve immediately with a short straw.

Southern Peach Sweet Tea Mint Julep Mocktail

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Soft amber tea and golden peach nectar give this julep a welcoming Southern personality. The ripe peach flavor blends beautifully with fresh mint, while chilled black tea adds depth without overpowering the fruit. A tall glass decorated with peach slices feels perfect for summer lunches and garden gatherings.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 8 fresh mint leaves
• 1/3 cup chilled brewed black tea
• 1/4 cup peach nectar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey syrup
• 1/4 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 thin peach slices
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brew black tea according to the package directions and let it cool completely before refrigerating.
2. Add the mint leaves, lemon juice, and honey syrup to a tall glass. Lightly muddle until the mint releases its aroma.
3. Pour in the chilled tea and peach nectar, stirring until thoroughly combined.
4. Fill the glass with crushed ice and top with sparkling water. Stir once to preserve the bubbles.
5. Arrange peach slices along the inside of the glass and finish with a fresh mint sprig.

Blackberry Sage Mint Julep With Sparkling Water

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Deep purple blackberry juice creates a beautiful contrast against bright green mint and silvery crushed ice. Sage contributes an earthy fragrance that complements the berries without making the drink overly herbal. This sophisticated-looking julep is especially appealing for outdoor dinners, early fall gatherings, and elegant afternoon refreshments.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 6 fresh blackberries
• 6 fresh mint leaves
• 1 small fresh sage leaf
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp simple syrup
• 1/2 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 whole blackberries for garnish
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the blackberries, mint leaves, sage, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Gently muddle until the berries release their juice and the herbs become fragrant.
3. Add 1/4 cup crushed ice and shake briefly. Double-strain into a rocks glass to remove seeds and herb fragments.
4. Fill the glass with the remaining crushed ice and pour sparkling water slowly over the mixture.
5. Stir lightly, then garnish with skewered blackberries and a generous mint sprig.

Strawberry Lemonade Mint Julep With Fresh Berries

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Bright strawberry pink, fresh lemon, and vibrant mint make this julep feel cheerful and unmistakably summery. The drink offers a refreshing balance of sweet berries and tart citrus, with a soft fruity texture beneath the crushed ice. Serve it in a clear glass for picnics, baby showers, or sunny celebrations.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 3 medium fresh strawberries, hulled
• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 tbsp simple syrup
• 1/4 cup chilled lemon sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 small strawberry for garnish
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the strawberries, mint leaves, and simple syrup in a mixing glass. Muddle until the strawberries become juicy.
2. Add the lemon juice and cold water, stirring until the fruit and syrup combine.
3. Strain into a chilled clear rocks glass if you prefer a smooth drink, or leave the fruit pulp for extra texture.
4. Pack the glass with crushed ice and top with chilled lemon sparkling water.
5. Garnish with a strawberry sliced halfway through and a fresh mint sprig.

Cool Cucumber Lime Mint Julep With Garden Herbs

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Pale green cucumber juice gives this julep a wonderfully clean, spa-inspired appearance. Lime adds brightness, while mint brings a cooling fragrance that makes every sip feel light and crisp. Thin cucumber ribbons curled inside a clear glass create an elegant presentation for brunches, garden parties, and hot summer afternoons.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 4 thin cucumber slices
• 8 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 tsp simple syrup
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/2 cup chilled club soda
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 long cucumber ribbon
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the cucumber slices, mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Muddle lightly until the cucumber releases its juice and the mint becomes aromatic.
3. Add the cold water and shake briefly with a small handful of ice. Fine-strain into a chilled glass.
4. Curl the cucumber ribbon against the inside of the glass, then fill with crushed ice.
5. Pour in the club soda and gently stir. Finish with a mint sprig and serve while cold.

Blueberry Lavender Mint Julep With Floral Sparkle

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This delicate julep combines dusky purple blueberry juice with the subtle perfume of lavender and cool, fresh mint. Its gently floral flavor feels refined rather than sugary, especially when balanced with tart lemon. A clear julep-style glass and floating blueberries make it lovely for spring brunches and afternoon tea parties.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp culinary lavender simple syrup
• 1/2 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 3 whole blueberries for garnish
• 1 small mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the blueberries, mint leaves, lemon juice, and lavender syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Muddle gently until the blueberries burst and release their deep purple juices.
3. Add a little crushed ice and shake for several seconds to chill the mixture.
4. Double-strain into a chilled julep cup filled with fresh crushed ice. Pour in the sparkling water.
5. Stir once, then garnish with blueberries and mint. Use a light hand with lavender syrup so the floral flavor remains subtle.

Creamy Pineapple Coconut Mint Julep Over Crushed Ice

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Golden pineapple juice and silky coconut milk turn this julep into a refreshing tropical treat. Fresh mint and lime keep the creamy sweetness from becoming heavy. Served in a chilled glass with frothy pale-yellow liquid, bright pineapple, and a fresh mint garnish, it’s ideal for poolside afternoons and summer celebrations.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1/3 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup well-shaken canned coconut milk
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp simple syrup, optional
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 small pineapple wedge
• 1 fresh mint sprig
• 1 tsp unsweetened shredded coconut for garnish, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add the mint leaves and lime juice to a cocktail shaker. Press gently to release the mint aroma.
2. Pour in pineapple juice, coconut milk, and optional simple syrup.
3. Add 1/4 cup crushed ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds until the mixture becomes slightly frothy.
4. Strain into a chilled rocks glass packed with the remaining crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, fresh mint, and a light sprinkle of shredded coconut. Serve promptly for the creamiest texture.

Watermelon Basil Mint Julep With Lime Sparkle

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Juicy watermelon produces a gorgeous coral-red julep that looks especially refreshing against a frosty glass. Basil adds a sweet herbal fragrance alongside the familiar cooling mint, while lime keeps the drink bright and lively. It’s a natural choice for backyard cookouts, summer picnics, and afternoons spent outdoors.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 1/2 cup seedless watermelon cubes
• 6 fresh mint leaves
• 2 fresh basil leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp agave syrup, optional
• 1/3 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 small watermelon triangle
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add the watermelon cubes to a mixing glass and mash thoroughly until juicy.
2. Add the mint, basil, lime juice, and optional agave syrup. Press the herbs lightly to release their fragrance.
3. Fine-strain the mixture into a chilled glass, pressing gently to extract the watermelon juice.
4. Fill the glass with crushed ice and slowly add the sparkling water.
5. Stir briefly and garnish with a small watermelon triangle and fresh mint sprig.

Blood Orange Rosemary Mint Julep With Ginger Fizz

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Vibrant blood orange juice gives this julep an eye-catching ruby-orange color. Fresh rosemary contributes a pine-like herbal aroma that pairs surprisingly well with cooling mint and spicy ginger. Served in a short glass with an orange wheel tucked into the ice, it makes a beautiful winter citrus mocktail.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1 small rosemary sprig
• 1/3 cup fresh blood orange juice
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp simple syrup, optional
• 1/3 cup chilled ginger ale
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 thin blood orange wheel
• 1 fresh mint sprig

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the mint leaves, half the rosemary sprig, and lemon juice in a mixing glass.
2. Lightly muddle the herbs, being careful not to crush the rosemary stem into small pieces.
3. Add the blood orange juice and optional syrup. Stir, then fine-strain into a chilled rocks glass.
4. Fill the glass with crushed ice and slowly add the ginger ale.
5. Tuck a blood orange wheel into the ice and garnish with the remaining rosemary and mint.

Spiced Apple Cider Mint Julep With Cinnamon

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This autumn-inspired julep combines golden apple cider with fresh mint, warming cinnamon, and the soft fizz of ginger ale. Its sweet-tart apple flavor feels cozy despite the icy presentation. A clear glass garnished with a delicate apple fan and cinnamon stick makes it especially appealing for Thanksgiving gatherings and fall parties.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup chilled nonalcoholic apple cider
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chilled ginger ale
• 1 small pinch ground cinnamon
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 thin apple slices
• 1 cinnamon stick for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place mint leaves, lemon juice, and maple syrup in the bottom of a chilled glass.
2. Gently muddle to release the mint oils, then stir in the apple cider and tiny pinch of cinnamon.
3. Fill the glass generously with crushed ice and pour in the chilled ginger ale.
4. Stir from the bottom to distribute the cinnamon without flattening the bubbles.
5. Arrange the apple slices into a small fan and add a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately before the apple garnish begins to brown.

Ruby Pomegranate Hibiscus Mint Julep With Citrus

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Rich crimson pomegranate juice and ruby hibiscus tea create a dramatic jewel-toned julep with a pleasantly tart finish. Fresh mint provides a cooling contrast, while orange adds gentle sweetness and fragrance. This elegant drink looks especially attractive in a clear goblet with pomegranate seeds resting among the crushed ice.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup unsweetened pomegranate juice
• 1/4 cup chilled brewed hibiscus tea
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 2 tsp simple syrup
• 1/4 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 tbsp pomegranate arils
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brew hibiscus tea according to its package instructions and cool completely.
2. Gently muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a mixing glass until fragrant.
3. Add pomegranate juice, hibiscus tea, and orange juice. Stir until evenly combined.
4. Strain into a chilled goblet filled with crushed ice, then add sparkling water.
5. Sprinkle pomegranate arils over the ice and garnish with fresh mint. Adjust sweetness with a little extra syrup if the juice is particularly tart.

Golden Mango Mint Julep With Chili Lime

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Thick golden mango brings a smooth, tropical richness to this vibrant julep. Fresh lime and cooling mint balance its sweetness, while a delicate chili-salt rim offers a lively contrast. Served in a wide rocks glass with a mound of ice, it’s a playful drink for summer parties and spicy meals.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 1/4 cup smooth mango puree
• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp agave syrup, optional
• 1/3 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 tsp mild chili-lime seasoning
• 1 lime wedge for rimming
• 1 small mango slice
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rub the lime wedge around half the rim of a chilled rocks glass, then dip that section lightly into the chili-lime seasoning.
2. Gently muddle the mint leaves with lime juice and optional agave syrup in a separate mixing glass.
3. Add mango puree and stir until thoroughly combined. Remove the mint leaves if a smoother texture is preferred.
4. Fill the prepared glass with crushed ice, spoon in the mango mixture, and slowly add sparkling water.
5. Stir gently until pourable and garnish with a mango slice and fresh mint sprig.

Raspberry Rose Mint Julep With Soft Pink Bubbles

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Fresh raspberries create a beautiful rosy-pink color, while a tiny hint of rosewater adds a delicate floral aroma. Cooling mint and tart lemon prevent the drink from tasting overly sweet. Served in a clear glass with a graceful mint sprig and raspberries, this julep suits bridal showers and spring celebrations.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp simple syrup
• 1/8 tsp food-grade rosewater
• 1/2 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 raspberries for garnish
• 1 fresh mint sprig

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add the raspberries, mint leaves, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a mixing glass.
2. Gently muddle until the raspberries break down and the mint becomes fragrant.
3. Stir in the rosewater, then fine-strain the mixture into a chilled julep cup.
4. Add crushed ice and slowly top with sparkling water, stirring once to distribute the pink fruit mixture.
5. Garnish with fresh raspberries and mint. Measure the rosewater carefully to keep the floral flavor delicate.

Pink Grapefruit Thyme Mint Julep With Honey

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Soft blush-pink grapefruit juice gives this refreshing julep a delicate appearance and pleasantly bittersweet citrus flavor. Honey rounds out the sharp edges, while fresh thyme and mint add subtle garden aromas. A frosted glass with a grapefruit crescent and herbal garnish makes an attractive brunch or early-evening drink.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1 small fresh thyme sprig
• 1/3 cup fresh pink grapefruit juice
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey syrup
• 1/3 cup chilled club soda
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 small grapefruit crescent
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make quick honey syrup by stirring equal parts honey and warm water until dissolved, then allow it to cool.
2. Add the mint leaves, half the thyme sprig, lemon juice, and measured honey syrup to a mixing glass.
3. Press the herbs gently, then add grapefruit juice and stir thoroughly.
4. Fine-strain into a chilled glass filled with crushed ice and top with club soda.
5. Garnish with a grapefruit crescent, remaining thyme, and mint. Serve immediately for the freshest citrus aroma.

Dark Cherry Vanilla Mint Julep With Ginger

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Deep red cherry juice gives this julep a rich color reminiscent of summer fruit preserves. A tiny amount of vanilla softens the tart cherries, while ginger ale adds lively bubbles and gentle spice. Fresh mint keeps the flavor crisp. Serve it in a short glass with glossy cherries for summer dinners.

Ingredients

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Makes 1 drink.

• 4 fresh or thawed frozen pitted sweet cherries
• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup unsweetened tart cherry juice
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp simple syrup
• 1/8 tsp pure vanilla extract, alcohol-free
• 1/3 cup chilled ginger ale
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 whole pitted cherries for garnish
• 1 mint sprig

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the pitted cherries, mint leaves, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Gently muddle until the cherries release their juices, then add tart cherry juice and alcohol-free vanilla extract.
3. Shake briefly with a handful of crushed ice and fine-strain into a chilled rocks glass.
4. Fill the glass with fresh crushed ice and top slowly with ginger ale.
5. Garnish with two pitted cherries on a cocktail pick and a fresh mint sprig.

Pear Cardamom Mint Julep With Lemon Sparkle

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Pale golden pear nectar creates an elegant, softly sweet julep with a delicate fruity fragrance. A hint of cardamom introduces warm aromatic spice, while lemon and mint keep the drink beautifully balanced. Served in a chilled glass with thin pear slices, this refined mocktail works well for fall dinners and holiday entertaining.

Ingredients

Read More : 18 Vampire Mocktail Recipes For A Deliciously Spooky Halloween Night Updated 11/2026

Makes 1 drink.

• 7 fresh mint leaves
• 1/3 cup pear nectar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp simple syrup
• 1 tiny pinch ground cardamom
• 1/3 cup chilled sparkling water
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 thin fresh pear slices
• 1 mint sprig for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the mint leaves, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a mixing glass. Gently muddle until fragrant.
2. Add pear nectar and a tiny pinch of ground cardamom. Stir well to distribute the spice.
3. Fine-strain into a chilled julep cup or short glass to remove the mint leaves.
4. Fill the glass with crushed ice and gently pour in sparkling water.
5. Stir once, then garnish with thin pear slices and a mint sprig. Use cardamom sparingly so it complements rather than overwhelms the pear.

Find Your Favorite Mocktail Mint Julep for Every Occasion

A great mocktail mint julep doesn’t need complicated ingredients or elaborate equipment. Fresh mint, plenty of crushed ice, and a thoughtfully balanced combination of sweetness and acidity are usually all it takes to create something memorable.

For a traditional Southern-inspired experience, start with the Classic Ginger Ale Mint Julep or Southern Peach Sweet Tea version. Both deliver familiar, comforting flavors with a refreshing finish.

If you love fruity drinks, the Strawberry Lemonade, Watermelon Basil, and Golden Mango variations are especially appealing during warm weather. Their vibrant colors also make them wonderful choices for parties.

For something more sophisticated, try the Blackberry Sage, Blueberry Lavender, or Raspberry Rose recipes. These herbaceous and floral combinations bring an elegant twist to the familiar mint julep.

Cooler seasons call for the Spiced Apple Cider, Pear Cardamom, and Blood Orange Rosemary variations. Meanwhile, the Pineapple Coconut version is a fun option when you’re craving something tropical and slightly creamy.

Whichever recipe you choose, prepare your ingredients ahead of time, keep the mixers chilled, and add the crushed ice just before serving. A fresh mint garnish is the finishing touch that makes these alcohol-free juleps feel special.

With so many delicious combinations to explore, there’s a refreshing mint julep for every season, celebration, and flavor preference.

Sources: https://chesbrewco.com
Category: Mocktails